Ronaldo signs new two-year Al Nassr deal, ending speculation over his next move

Cristiano Ronaldo has signed a two-year contract extension with Saudi club Al Nassr, ending speculation over his future and reaffirming his commitment to the kingdom’s ambitious football project. The Portuguese forward, who turns 41 next year, is now tied to Al Nassr until 2027.

The club confirmed the news on Thursday with a post on X: “Cristiano Ronaldo is staying at @AlNassrFC until 2027.” Moments earlier, a teaser video had shown the five-time Ballon d’Or winner strolling along a beachfront declaring, “Al Nassr forever.”

Ronaldo’s decision comes weeks after fuelling uncertainty with a cryptic Instagram post reading “This chapter is over”, shortly after Al Nassr finished third in the Saudi Pro League and failed to secure any major silverware. Despite his prolific return—25 league goals to top the scoring charts—trophies have eluded him since joining in December 2022.

The new contract is rumoured to be one of the most lucrative in world football, building on an earlier deal reported to be worth $250 million. Sources close to the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which owns Al Nassr and other top clubs, regard Ronaldo as pivotal to their football revolution.

“Ronaldo’s presence has been a key factor in developing the Saudi league,” a senior PIF official told AFP last month. “He opened the door for elite and young players to come here.”

Indeed, Ronaldo’s arrival sparked a flood of high-profile transfers to the Gulf. From Karim Benzema to Neymar, stars past their European peak have embraced the Saudi project, drawn by mega salaries and royal hospitality. Neymar, however, left Al Hilal in January after a largely forgettable 18-month stint plagued by injuries.

For Ronaldo, the challenge now is not just to score goals—but to deliver silverware. Al Nassr came painfully close last season, only to be knocked out in the Asian Champions League semi-finals. The veteran forward has spoken before about ending his career in Riyadh, and this new deal suggests that possibility is more likely than ever.

He signed the fresh terms alongside Al Nassr chairman Abdullah Al-Majid, with the moment captured in a photo released by the club. His beaming smile and statement of loyalty countered growing speculation he might jump ship for one last stint in Europe or the MLS.

The 2025-26 season will now be a critical test for Ronaldo. He remains physically sharp and determined but will be 43 by the time this contract expires. Whether he adds to his silverware tally remains to be seen—but his presence alone continues to command global attention.

As Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the kingdom’s football ambitions show no sign of waning. Unlike the faltering Chinese Super League experiment, the Saudi model is bankrolled by state resources and fuelled by a national rebranding effort. Football is just one piece of a much larger plan to draw tourists, business, and prestige.

Ronaldo’s ongoing role in that transformation is undeniable. From boosting stadium attendances to global broadcast reach, his impact stretches well beyond the pitch. And with two more years guaranteed, he remains the face of Saudi football.